It's the room where we start and end our days, yet our bathrooms often bear the brunt of daily wear and tear, leaving them feeling dated and neglected. But according to a leading expert, achieving a luxurious, hotel-style sanctuary doesn't require a fortune. Andrea Clewett, co-founder of the award-winning custom printed bathroom panels brand Showerscape, has exclusively revealed to the Daily Mail a series of surprisingly simple and affordable upgrades that can utterly transform the space.
Affordable Upgrades for a High-End Feel
Andrea Clewett believes bathrooms are poised for a design revolution. "Bathrooms are having a moment," she explained. "Style and design-wise for 2026, it's all about creating a room where you can relax, that you love, and that offers you a place to escape. It's the place where we can switch off, and imagine we’re somewhere else." She identified several common pitfalls that can make a bathroom seem cheap, from grubby tiles to poor lighting, but insists there are clever, budget-friendly solutions for each.
Transform Tiles and Banish the Shower Curtain
Cracked or discoloured tiles and dirty grout are major culprits in making a bathroom feel tired. "Even small imperfections catch the eye and give the impression that the whole bathroom hasn’t been cared for," Clewett noted. Her budget-saving recommendation is a simple coat of specialist tile paint to refresh peeling tiles or outdated colours, which she says can completely transform their appearance.
Another instant upgrade is ditching the shower curtain. "Shower curtains are terrible," Clewett stated bluntly. "They harbour dirt and grime and make the space feel enclosed and cluttered." She recommends replacing them with a stylish glazing screen or panel, which is affordable to install and replace, and immediately modernises the room, especially in smaller bathrooms.
Focus on Fixtures, Storage, and Performance
Clewett emphasised that fixtures set the entire tone of the bathroom. Outdated separate hot and cold taps can anchor a room in the past. "Mixer taps are the way to go," she advised, noting that swapping old taps for a single modern mixer is usually straightforward and offers far greater convenience, even if it occasionally requires a new basin.
Clutter is the enemy of luxury. A lack of smart storage can drown even the nicest décor. Clewett advocates investing in solutions like a vanity unit with built-in drawers, slim wall-mounted cabinets, or a multi-functional bathroom wall cabinet that combines storage, lighting, and a mirror.
Function is as important as form. A weak, trickling shower undermines the experience. "A bathroom should be both beautiful and functional, so don’t sacrifice performance for style," she warned. For low pressure, consult a plumber about a pump, and consider a waterfall-style shower head for a boutique hotel feel.
The Finishing Touches That Make a Difference
Surprisingly simple additions can have a major impact. Rough, faded towels instantly drag down a bathroom's aesthetic. Clewett suggests investing in a good set of towels in earthy neutrals or bold patterns to add character, noting they needn't be expensive.
Bare white walls can feel clinical rather than calming. "White on white on white can quickly feel cold and clinical," she said. To inject warmth and personality, add wall art, create a gallery wall, or introduce a feature shower panel. Bringing in greenery also helps soften the space.
Finally, lighting is critical. Harsh overhead lights create unflattering shadows, while dim lighting is impractical. Clewett recommends a bright but warm main light, potentially dimmable, and suggests backlit mirrors or halo-style ceiling lights for a modern, inviting ambiance.
By implementing these focused, affordable changes, Clewett proves that creating a luxurious bathroom retreat is an achievable goal for any household, promising a daily escape without the extravagant cost.
